As NFL training camps are in full swing, an unfortunate surge of injuries is reshaping team preparations just weeks before the regular season kick-off. Several high-profile players across the league find themselves sidelined, prompting adjustments in team strategies and creating opportunities for backups to step into the spotlight.
Chargers Reeling from Herbert’s Injury
The Los Angeles Chargers face a pivotal challenge after their star quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert is projected to be in a walking boot for the next two weeks before beginning a return-to-play protocol. Despite this setback, Herbert is anticipated to be ready for the regular season. In his absence, backup quarterback Easton Stick will take on first-team reps, a critical opportunity to showcase his readiness should Herbert's recovery encounter any delays.
Panthers Quarterbacks in Flux
Over in Carolina, the Panthers are dealing with quarterback injuries on multiple fronts. Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton is out for a couple of weeks due to a quad injury. Consequently, the team is actively seeking another quarterback to fill the gap during Dalton’s recovery. This situation places additional pressure on younger quarterbacks to rise to the occasion and prove their mettle.
Key Offensive Players Sidelined
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is also nursing a calf injury, which emerged earlier this month. This prominent running back is expected to miss several weeks of practice and is likely to sit out all preseason games. In Detroit, rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early on Monday with a hamstring injury, potentially causing concern for Lions fans and coaching staff alike.
Meanwhile, for the Panthers, rookie running back Jonathan Brooks is on the mend from an ACL tear sustained last November. According to head coach Dave Canales, Brooks is expected to be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season. These injuries underscore the physical toll and unpredictability of the sport, emphasizing the depth required in an NFL roster.
Receiver and Edge Rusher Woes
The injury bug hasn't spared wide receivers either. Tennessee wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is dealing with a knee injury expected to sideline him for four to six weeks. The Titans are expected to emphasize a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan, making Hopkins' absence a significant concern. Similarly, Saints wide receiver Josh Downs is grappling with a high-ankle sprain suffered earlier in the month, while the Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua is considered week-to-week following a knee injury during practice.
For the Dallas Cowboys, edge rusher Sam Williams suffered a torn ACL, ruling him out for the entire 2024 season. Williams was anticipated to play a key supporting role behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence. Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, though initial reports suggest it may not be serious. Yet another blow for edge rushers comes as Samson Ebukam has torn his Achilles tendon during practice, sidelining him for the entire season.
Offensive Line Concerns
Offensive linemen have not been immune to injuries either. Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta is out for the year after tearing his ACL. Additionally, Bengals first-round pick Amarius Mims is facing several weeks off due to a pectoral strain and could potentially miss the regular season opener. The Jaguars have their own issues on the offensive line, with tackle Cam Robinson nursing a shoulder injury and his fellow tackle Anton Harrison currently in the concussion protocol.
The recent spate of injuries has left head coaches across the league in a quandary. Jaguars head coach Dave Canales noted that remaining optimistic while managing these setbacks is essential for team morale and future success. In the words of Saints' head coach Dennis Allen, teams must "figure out how to stay healthy," a daunting task that necessitates careful monitoring of player workloads and the inevitable element of fortune.
Rams coach Sean McVay adds a note of cautious realism, suggesting that the league must take recovery "a week at a time." The collective toll of these injuries serves as a stark reminder of the physical demands of professional football and the resilience required from both players and coaches as they navigate the perilous path to the regular season.